THERMOSTAT FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION OF A HEATING,VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) SYSTEM

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/583,377 filed on Sep. 18, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/583,372 filed on Sep. 18, 2023, the contents of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The disclosure generally relates to thermostats, and more particularly relates to a thermostat for controlling operation of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system based on power line communication.

BACKGROUND

Generally, HVAC systems comprise indoor units and outdoor units. The indoor units and outdoor units may be controlled via a thermostat. In order for operation of the indoor and outdoor units, wirings are installed between the thermostat, the indoor unit, and the outdoor unit. The wirings may correspond to operational functions that are to be performed by the indoor unit and/or the outdoor unit. Conventional thermostats act like a switch to energize and de-energize individual wirings so as to enable or disable the operational functions of the indoor unit and/or the outdoor unit.

Referring to FIG. 1A, an arrangement 100 of thermostat 102 and a HVAC unit 104 is depicted, in accordance with existing art. The unit 104 may be an indoor unit or an outdoor unit. The thermostat 102 is coupled to the unit 104, in that, multiple wirings 106 are installed between the thermostat 102 and the unit 104. In particular, each wire of the wirings 106 may correspond to an operational function of the unit 104. For instance, functions W1, W2, G, Y2, O/B, and ACC1 may each have a corresponding wire between the thermostat 102 and the unit 104. When a function is to be activated on the unit 104, the corresponding wire is energized by the thermostat 102.

FIG. 1B illustrates a schematic view of the thermostat 102, in accordance with existing art. The thermostat 102 utilizes separate wirings for different operational functions, such as, cooling in different stages (first stage, second stage, etc.), heating in different stages, fan only, O/B compressor, and the like. The thermostat 102 may comprise a set of controlled relays 108 corresponding to each operational function and a controller 110. The set of relays are controlled by the controller 110. The set of relays 108 are adapted to selectively send 24V AC signals to individual wires to enable different operational functions. For instance, a relay corresponding to first stage cooling may be closed and the 24V AC signal is sent to the wiring corresponding to the first stage cooling.

Nowadays, there is an increased interest in installation of additional units, such as heat pumps. However, additional units would require additional wirings and relays to support the functionality of the additional units. This is because control signals for the additional units would require a connection with the thermostat 102 so that the thermostat 102 can enable the functionality of the additional units, as and when required. The installation of additional wiring is inconvenient for the customer as well as the technician. Further, the installation of additional wirings is costly and time-consuming. Furthermore, additional wirings and relays would add to the size and thickness of the thermostat 102. Moreover, the conventional thermostat 102 does not have the functionality to dynamically change the number of HVAC units or accessory devices being controlled.

Further, already installed HVAC systems generally rely on a two-wire interface (Y and C lines) for controlling the unit 104. Further, the number of signal connectors (wirings) are set in the already installed HVAC units. Installation of additional units with additional signal connectors would require installation of wirings for the additional signal connectors. However, installation of wirings in an already installed HVAC system is inconvenient and time-consuming. For instance, installation of new wirings may require tearing of walls, digging under walls, or other time-consuming activities to ensure the proper electrical control signals are available to the new unit being installed.

Moreover, time-consuming installation tasks are also inconvenient for technicians. With an increase in demand for more energy efficient equipment (heat pump, multi-stage air conditioners, furnaces, and the like), the demand for additional wirings would also increase.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide a solution that can overcome at least some of the above-discussed problems.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the disclosure. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the disclosure and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the disclosure.

Disclosed herein is a thermostat to control operation of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The thermostat comprises a set of wires, a memory, and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory and the set of wires. The one or more processors are configured to determine an operation to be performed by the HVAC system based on at least one of a user input or one or more parameters associated with an indoor area. The indoor area is associated with the thermostat and the HVAC system. The one or more processors are further configured to transmit, to the HVAC system via the set of wires, an HVAC signal indicative of the operation to be performed. At least one wire of the set of wires is configured to communicate power signals and data signals associated with the HVAC signal. The one or more processors are further configured to cause the HVAC system to perform the operation based on the transmitted HVAC signal. The set of wires comprises a common (C) line, a power line (R), and an outdoor activation (Y) line.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors are configured to monitor the one or more parameters associated with the indoor area. The one or more processors are further configured to receive the user input indicative of a command corresponding to the operation to be performed. The one or more processors are further configured to generate the HVAC signal based on at least one of the monitored environmental parameters and the received user input.

In one or more embodiments, the at least one wire of the set of wires is associated with a powered state and an unpowered state. Further, the at least one wire is configured to communicate the data signals in the powered state and in the unpowered state.

In one or more embodiments, the HVAC system comprises a first HVAC unit and a second HVAC unit. Further, the one or more processors are configured to transmit the data signals to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit via the Y line.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors are configured to simultaneously transmit the HVAC signal to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit.

Also disclosed herein is a method for controlling operation of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system by a thermostat. The thermostat comprises a set of wires. The method comprises determining an operation to be performed by the HVAC system based on at least one of a user input or one or more parameters associated with an indoor area. The indoor area is associated with the thermostat and the HVAC system. Further, the method comprises transmitting, to the HVAC system via the set of wires, an HVAC signal indicative of the operation to be performed. At least one wire of the set of wires is configured to communicate power signals and data signals associated with the HVAC signal. Further, the method comprises causing the HVAC system to perform the operation based on the transmitted HVAC signal. The set of wires comprises a common (C) line, a power line (R), and an outdoor activation (Y) line.

In one or more embodiments, the method comprises monitoring the one or more parameters associated with the indoor area. Further, the method comprises receiving the user input indicative of a command corresponding to the operation to be performed. Further, the method comprises generating the HVAC signal based on at least one of the monitored environmental parameters and the received user input.

In one or more embodiments, the at least one wire of the set of wires is associated with a powered state and an unpowered state. Further, the at least one wire is configured to communicate the data signals in the powered state and in the unpowered state.

In one or more embodiments, the HVAC system comprises a first HVAC unit and a second HVAC unit. Further, the method comprises transmitting the data signals to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit via the Y line.

In one or more embodiments, the method comprises simultaneously transmitting the HVAC signal to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit.

To further clarify the advantages and features of the methods, systems, and apparatuses, a more particular description of the methods, systems, and apparatuses will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates an arrangement of a thermostat and an HVAC unit, in accordance with existing art;

FIG. 1B illustrates a schematic view of the thermostat of FIG. 1A, in accordance with existing art;

FIG. 2 illustrates an environment comprising a system for controlling operation of an HVAC system associated with one or more HVAC units, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a block diagram depicting components of a first control device and a second control device, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIGS. 4-7 illustrates schematic representations of a HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 8A illustrates a process flow depicting a method for controlling operation of the HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 8B illustrates a process flow depicting a method for triggering a control action, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of a thermostat for controlling operation of the HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates another schematic diagram of a thermostat for controlling operation of the HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure;

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate schematic representations of an environment comprising the thermostat in communication with a first HVAC unit and a second HVAC unit over a power line, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure; and

FIG. 12 illustrates a process flow depicting a method for controlling operation of the HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the disclosure. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the disclosure so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the various embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, “some embodiments”, “one or more embodiments” and similar language throughout this specification may but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

In addition to overcoming the challenges related to installation of new wirings, the disclosure provides for a system that allows control boards to perform all the functions of a multi-wire HVAC system using only a three-wire power line between the thermostat and a first HVAC unit, and a two-wire power line between the first HVAC unit and a second HVAC unit. A modern, efficient multi-stage HVAC system may thus be enabled using the existing wirings. No additional wiring needs to be pulled to connect new units and installation time is significantly reduced.

Embodiments of the disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2 illustrates an environment 200 comprising a system 202 for controlling operation of an HVAC system associated with one or more HVAC units. The system 202 comprises a thermostat 204, a first HVAC unit 206, and a second HVAC unit 208. The thermostat 204 may be coupled to the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 via a power line 210. The thermostat 204 is explained in detail with respect to FIGS. 9-12. In an embodiment, the power line 210 may be configured to communicate power signals as well as data signals. In an embodiment, the power line 210 may include 24V wires. In an embodiment, the communication over the power lines 210 may be referred to as power line communication (PLC).

In an embodiment, the power line 210 comprises a common (C) line and an outdoor activation (Y) line. In an embodiment, the power line 210 comprises a C line, a Y line, and a power (R) line. In an embodiment, the power line 210 between the thermostat 204 and the first HVAC unit 206 may comprise the C, Y, and R lines, while the power line 210 between the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 comprises C and Y lines. In an embodiment, the power line 210 may be in a powered state and an unpowered state. The power line 210, in particular the Y line, may be enabled to transmit a 24V AC power when required. The power line 210 may further be enabled to transmit data signal in both the powered and the unpowered state of the power line 210. The Y line may be enabled to transmit data or commands irrespective of the state of the power line 210, i.e., in both the powered and the unpowered state of the power line 210.

In an embodiment, the R line may be used to provide power to the HVAC system, such as, via a transformer. In an embodiment, the C line may be used to provide power to the thermostat.

In an embodiment, the first HVAC unit 206 may be an indoor unit (IDU) associated with the HVAC system and the second HVAC unit 208 may be an outdoor unit (ODU) associated with the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the HVAC system may comprise additional components such as a thermostat, zone boards, A2L boards, defrost boards, and the like.

In an embodiment, the first HVAC unit 206 comprises a first control device 212 and functionalities of the first HVAC unit 206 may be provided through the first control device 212. The first control device 212 may be an on-device unit integrated with the first HAVC unit 206. Alternatively, the first control device 212 may be a server-based unit or a cloud-based unit. In some embodiments, one or more components of the first control device 212 may be provided on cloud while one or more components of the first control device 212 may be provided locally on the first HVAC unit 206.

In one or more embodiments, the first control device 212 may comprise one or more processors 302, a memory 304, and a communication interface 306, as shown in FIG. 3A.

The one or more processors 302 may be configured to communicate with the memory 304 to execute programmable instructions stored in the memory 304. The programmable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors 302, cause the one or more processors 302 to provide the functionalities of the first control device 212 as discussed in the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors 302 may be one or more microprocessor(s) or microcontroller(s). The one or more processors 302 may include one or a plurality of processors, which may further include one or more general-purpose processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or the like, a graphics-only processing unit such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a visual processing unit (VPU), and/or an Artificial intelligence (AI) dedicated processor such as a neural processing unit (NPU).

In some embodiments, the memory 304 may store data and instructions executable by the processor(s) 302 to perform the method steps for controlling the operation of the HVAC system, as discussed herein throughout the disclosure. The memory 304 may further include, but is not limited to, a non-transitory computer-readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to, random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media and the like. Further, the non-transitory computer-readable storage media of memory 304 may include executable instructions in the form of modules and a database to store data. The modules may include a set of instructions that may be executed to cause the one or more processors 302 to perform any one or more of the methods as disclosed herein throughout the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the modules may be configured to perform the steps of the disclosure using the data stored in the database of the memory 304 for controlling the operation of the HVAC system.

In one or more embodiments, the communication interface 306 may include a transceiver and may be configured to communicate with the thermostat 204 and the second control device 214 via the power line 210. The communication interface 306 may include an electronic circuit specific to a standard that may enable communication over the power line 210.

The first control device 212 may be configured to receive an HVAC signal from the thermostat 204 over the power line 210. The HVAC signal may be associated with an operation to be performed by the HVAC system, for instance, the first HVAC unit 206, the second HVAC unit 208, and other components of the HVAC system. The operation may include, for instance, single-stage cooling, single-stage heating, multistage cooling, multistage heating, fan, etc.

As described above, the power line 210 is configured to communicate the power signal and the data signal. The first control device 212 may be configured to determine whether the HVAC signal received over the power line 210 is indicative of the power signal or the data signal. In an embodiment, the HVAC signal may be a power signal to provide power to the first HVAC unit 206 and/or to other components of the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the HVAC signal may be a data signal including details of the operation to be performed by the HVAC system, such as an operation to be performed by the first HVAC unit 206.

The first control device 212 may be configured to determine that the HVAC signal is indicative of the data signal, and upon determining that the HVAC signal is indicative of the data signal, the first control device 212 may be configured to trigger a control action associated with the HVAC system. That is, the first control device 212 may be configured to monitor various HVAC signals from the thermostat 204, such as, signals for cooling, heating, fan, and the like.

Referring to FIG. 4, a schematic representation of a HVAC system is depicted, in which, the first HVAC unit 206 is in communication with the thermostat 204 over the power line 210, such as, Y, C, and R lines. The first HVAC unit 206 comprises the first control device 212 configured to receive HVAC signals from the thermostat 204.

In an embodiment, the first HVAC unit 206 may comprise a set of relays 402 associated with corresponding functions of the first HVAC unit 206. The set of relays 402 (may be referred to as a ‘first set of relays’) may be associated with the cooling functions, heating functions, fan functions, and the like of the first HVAC unit 206. Each relay of the set of relays may be switched between an open state and a close state. When the corresponding relay is in the closed state, the corresponding function may be performed by the first HVAC unit 206. When the corresponding relay is in the open state, the corresponding function may not be performed by the first HVAC unit 206.

As described above, the first control device 212 may be configured to trigger a control action associated with the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the control action may include an activation or a de-activation, i.e., closing or opening, of the set of relays 402. The first control device 212 may be configured to determine, based on the data signal, the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. The first control device 212 may then be configured to cause an activation or a de-activation of one or more relays of the set of relays 402 of the first HVAC unit 206. Accordingly, based on the received data signal, the corresponding functionality of the first HVAC unit 206 may be activated or de-activated by controlling the set of relays 402. As an example, the HVAC signal over the power line may include a data signal indicative of a command for first-stage cooling. The first control device 212 may detect the HVAC signal and decode the data (command for first-stage cooling). The first control device 212 may then activate the corresponding relay of the set of relays 402 to activate the first stage cooling by the first HVAC unit 206.

In an embodiment, the first control device 212 may comprise a set of terminals corresponding to the functions of the first HVAC unit 206. The first control device 212 may be configured to determine, based on the received data signal, the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. The first control device 212 may then be configured to control the set of terminals to perform the operation through the functions of the first HVAC unit 206. In particular, the first control device 212 may be configured to generate a switching signal to cause activation or de-activation of one or more terminals of the set of terminals. Based on the activation or de-activation of the one or more terminals, the corresponding functions of the first HVAC unit 206 may be performed or stopped. As an example, the HVAC signal over the power line 210 may include a data signal indicative of a command for multistage cooling. The first control device 212 may detect the HVAC signal and decode the data (command for multistage cooling). The first control device 212 may then energize the corresponding terminal to activate the multistage cooling by the first HVAC unit 206.

As described above, the first control device 212 may be configured to trigger the control action associated with the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the control action may include controlling the operation of the second HVAC unit 208. Referring to FIG. 5, another schematic representation of a HVAC system is depicted. The first HVAC unit 206 is in communication with the thermostat 204 over the power line 210, such as, Y, C, and R lines. The first HVAC unit 206 may be in communication with the second HVAC unit 208 over the power line 210, such as, the Y and C lines.

The second HVAC unit 208 may comprise a set of relays 502 associated with the corresponding functions of the second HVAC unit 208. The set of relays 502 (may be referred to as a ‘second set of relays’) may be associated with the cooling functions, heating functions, fan functions, and the like of the second HVAC unit 208. Each relay of the set of relays 502 may be switched between an open state and a closed state. Similar to the set of relays 402, when the corresponding relay is in the closed state, the corresponding function may be performed by the second HVAC unit 208, and when the corresponding relay is in the open state, the corresponding function may not be performed by the second HVAC unit 208.

The first control device 212 may be configured to determine, based on the received data signal, the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. The first control device 212 may be configured to decode the data signal and determine that an operation is to be performed by the second HVAC unit 208. The first control device 212 may be configured to cause activation or de-activation of one or more relays of the set of relays 502 of the second HVAC unit 208 based on the data signal.

In an embodiment, the second HVAC unit 208 may comprise a set of screw terminals instead of the set of relays 502, and the details provided above with respect to the set of relays are applicable to the set of screw terminals as well. In an embodiment, the set of screw terminals may be configured to facilitate electrical connection via electric wires.

Accordingly, based on the received data signal, the corresponding functionality of the second HVAC unit 208 may be controlled by the first HVAC unit 206. That is, the first HVAC unit 206 may decode the received data and control an activation or a de-activation of corresponding functions of the second HVAC unit, by controlling the set of relays or the set of screw terminals of the second HVAC unit 208. As an example, the HVAC signal over the power line may be indicative of a command for first stage cooling. The first control device 212 may detect the HVAC signal and decode the data (command for first stage cooling). The first control device 212 may then activate the corresponding relay of the set of relays 502 to activate the first-stage cooling by the second HVAC unit 208.

In an embodiment, the second HVAC unit 208 comprises a second control device 214 and functionalities of the second HVAC unit 208 may be provided through the second control device 214. The second control device 214 may be an on-device unit integrated with the second HAVC unit 208. Alternatively, the second control device 214 may be a server-based unit or a cloud-based unit. In some embodiments, one or more components of the second control device 214 may be provided on cloud while one or more components of the second control device 214 may be provided locally on the second HVAC unit 208.

In one or more embodiments, the second control device 214 may comprise one or more processors 312, a memory 314, and a communication interface 316, as shown in FIG. 3B. It is appreciated that the details provided above for the one or more processors 302, the memory 314, and the communication interface 316 are equally applicable for the one or more processors 312, the memory 314, and the communication interface 316.

In one or more embodiments, the communication interface 316 may include a transceiver and may be configured to communicate with the thermostat 204 and the first control device 212 via the power line 210. For instance, the communication interface 316 may enable the second control device 214 to receive data signals from the first control device 212. The communication interface 316 may include an electronic circuit specific to a standard that may enable communication over the power line 210.

As described above, the first control device 212 may be configured to receive the HVAC signal comprising the data signal from the thermostat 204. In an embodiment, the first control device 212 may trigger the control action to control the operation of the second HVAC unit 208. The first control device 212 may be configured to determine the operation to be performed by the HVAC system based on the data signal. For instance, the operation may include first stage cooling in which the activation of corresponding functions of the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 may be required. The first control device 212 may be configured to activate/energize the corresponding relays or terminals to enable the first HVAC unit 206 to perform the corresponding function (in this example, the first stage cooling).

As the second HVAC unit 208 is also required to perform a function (first stage cooling), the first control device 212 may be configured to convert the data signal into another data signal indicative of a command for the second HVAC unit 208. The first control device 212 may be configured to transmit the another data signal to the second control device 214 over the power line 210. In an embodiment, the power line 210 between the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 may comprise Y and C lines. In an embodiment, various HVAC signals from the thermostat 204 may refer to energized or de-energized signals, and the another data signal may refer to a digital representation of the energized or de-energized signals.

Based on the another data signal received from the first control device 212, the second control device 214 may be configured to activate or de-activate one or more terminals associated with the second HVAC unit 208. That is, the first control device 212 enables the second control device 214 to activate or de-activate the one or more terminals to facilitate the operation to be performed by the HVAC system, in this example, the first stage cooling. Accordingly, based on the data signal received from the thermostat 204, the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 may perform the required functions.

In an embodiment, the first control device 212 and the second control device 214 may be configured to simultaneously receive the HVAC signal from the thermostat 204. The HVAC signal may be received over the power line 210 and may be associated with the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. Based on the received HVAC signal, the first control device 212 may be configured to generate a first switching signal to cause at least one of activation or deactivation of one or more respective terminals associated with the first HVAC unit 206. Further, based on the received HVAC signal, the second control device 214 may be configured to generate a second switching signal to cause at least one of activation or deactivation of one or more respective terminals associated with the second HVAC unit 208. That is, respective switching signals may be generated by the first control device 212 and the second control device 214 to cause at least one of an activation or a deactivation of one or more respective terminals associated with the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208, in order to facilitate the operation to be performed by the HVAC system.

Reference is made to FIG. 6, which illustrates another schematic representation of a HVAC system, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The first HVAC unit 206 may comprise a first set of relays 602 (corresponding to set of relays 402 in FIG. 4) and the second HVAC unit 208 may comprise a second set of relays 604 (corresponding to set of relays 502 in FIG. 5). As seen in FIG. 6, an HVAC signal may be received from the thermostat 204. The HVAC signal may include a data signal or a power signal. The first control device 212 may be configured to receive the HVAC signal and determine the operation to be performed. The first control device 212 may be configured to control the first set of relays 602 associated with corresponding functions of the first HVAC unit 206 based on the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the first control device 212 may be configured to generate the first switching signal to activate or de-activate the first set of relays 602. As an example, the operation may be activation of first stage cooling. The first control device 212 may activate the corresponding relay of the first set of relays 602 to cause the first HVAC unit 206 to perform the operation of first stage cooling.

In an embodiment, the first control device 212 may be configured to send another data signal to the second control device 214, the another data signal being indicative of the command for the second control device 214. Based on the received another data signal, the second control device 214 may control the second set of relays 604 associated with corresponding functions of the second HVAC unit 208 based on the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. As per the above-mentioned example, the second control device 214 may activate the corresponding relay of the second set of relays 604 to cause the second HVAC unit 208 to perform the operation of first stage cooling.

In an embodiment, the second control device 214 may simultaneously receive the HVAC signal from the thermostat 204 over the power line 210. The second control device 214 may be configured to generate the second switching signal to activate or de-activate the second set of relays 604. As per the above example, the operation may be activation of first stage cooling and the second control device 214 may activate the corresponding relay of the second set of relays 604 to cause the second HVAC unit 208 to perform the operation of first stage cooling.

It is appreciated that although FIG. 6 has been described with reference to the set of relays 602, 604, the details are applicable for an embodiment where the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 comprise a respective set of terminals energized and de-energized by the first control device 212 and the second control device 214.

In an embodiment, the HVAC system may comprise the thermostat 204 and the first HVAC unit 206. A new second HVAC unit may be retrofitted to the HVAC system. Referring to FIG. 7, another schematic representation of a HVAC system is depicted, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The new second HVAC unit 216 may be in communication with the first HVAC unit 206 and/or the thermostat 204. The thermostat 204 may be configured to transmit standard 24 v signals as well as data signals to the first HVAC unit 206. The first control device 212 may be configured to convert the signals from the thermostat 204 into digital signals, or the another data signal, indicative of commands for the new second HVAC unit 216. In an embodiment, the new second HVAC unit may require additional number of signals for operation. As the first control device 212 generates the another data signal, the second control device 214 of the new second HVAC unit 216 may receive the another data signal and control the operation of the new second HVAC unit 216. As a result, even with the new second HVAC unit requiring additional number of signals than already installed wirings can provide, with the system as detailed herein, commands can be sent to the new second HVAC unit 216 over the power line 210 and the operation of the new second HVAC unit 216 can be performed without requiring installation of additional wirings. In a non-limiting example, the new second HVAC unit 216 may be a heat pump. In an embodiment, the new second HVAC unit 216 may be a humidifier, a de-humidifier, an air purifier, and the like.

FIG. 8A illustrates a process flow depicting a method 800 for controlling operation of the HVAC system comprising the thermostat 204 and the first HVAC unit 206 coupled via the power line 210. The method 800 may be described with reference to the first HVAC unit 206, and a skilled person will appreciate that the method may be performed for multiple units within the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the method 800 may be performed by the first control device 212 of the first HVAC unit 206.

At step 802, the method 800 comprises receiving from the thermostat over the power line 210, a HVAC signal associated with an operation to be performed by the HVAC system. The power line 210 may be configured to communicate power signal and data signal.

At step 804, the method 800 comprises determining whether the HVAC signal received over the power line 210 is indicative of the power signal or the data signal.

At step 806, the method comprises triggering a control action associated with the HVAC system upon determining that the HVAC signal is indicative of the data signal.

In some embodiments, triggering the control action comprises causing the activation or de-activation of a set of terminals associated with the first HVAC unit 206. In some embodiments, triggering the control action comprises controlling a set of relays associated with the HVAC unit 206. In some embodiments, triggering the control action comprises causing the activation or de-activation of a set of terminals associated with the second HVAC unit 208.

In some embodiments, in triggering the control action, the method 800 comprises sub-steps 806A-806D, as depicted in FIG. 8B. At step 806A, the method 800 comprises determining, based on the data signal, the operation to be performed by the HVAC system.

At step 806B, the method 800 comprises converting the data signal into another data signal indicative of a command for the second HVAC unit 208.

At step 806C, the method 800 comprises transmitting, over the power line 210, the another data signal to the second control device 214 of the second HVAC unit 208.

At step 806D, the method 800 comprises enabling the second control device 214 to at least one of activate or deactivate, based on the another data signal, one or more terminals associated with the second HVAC unit 208 in order to facilitate the operation to be performed by the HVAC system.

In some embodiments, triggering the control action comprises simultaneously receiving, by the first control device 212 and the second control device 214 over the power line 210, the HVAC signal associated with the operation to be performed by the HVAC system. In some embodiments, triggering the control action further comprises generating, by the first control device 212 and the second control device 214, respective switching signals to cause at least one of an activation or a deactivation of one or more respective terminals associated with the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208, in order to facilitate the operation to be performed by the HVAC system.

While the above steps of FIGS. 8A-8B are shown and described in a particular sequence, the steps may occur in variations to the sequence in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure. Further, a detailed description related to the various steps of FIGS. 8A-8B is already covered in the description related to FIGS. 2-7 and is omitted herein for the sake of brevity.

In some embodiments, the first control device 212 and/or the second control device 214 may be configured to execute instructions included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The computer program product may comprise instructions that, when executed by the first control device 212 and/or the second control device 214, cause the first control device 212 and/or the second control device 214 to perform the method steps are detailed with reference to FIGS. 8A-8B.

Reference is made to FIG. 9 which illustrates a schematic diagram of a thermostat 900 for controlling operation of an HVAC system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The thermostat 900 may correspond to the thermostat 204 described with reference to FIG. 2. The thermostat 900 may be in communication with the HVAC system and may be configured to control the operation of the HVAC system. In particular, the thermostat 900 may be configured to control operational functions of one or more units of the HVAC system.

The thermostat 900 may comprise a control unit 902 including a memory 904, one or more processors 906, and a communication interface 908. The one or more processors 906 may be configured to communicate with the memory 904 to execute programmable instructions stored in the memory 904. The programmable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors 906, cause the one or more processors 906 to provide the functionalities of the thermostat 900 as discussed in the disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors 906 may be one or more microprocessor(s) or microcontroller(s). The one or more processors 906 may include one or a plurality of processors, which may further include one or more general-purpose processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or the like, a graphics-only processing unit such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a visual processing unit (VPU), and/or an Artificial intelligence (AI) dedicated processor such as a neural processing unit (NPU).

In some embodiments, the memory 904 may store data and instructions executable by the processor(s) 906 to perform the method steps for controlling the operation of the HVAC system, as discussed herein throughout the disclosure. The memory 904 may further include, but is not limited to, a non-transitory computer-readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to, random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media and the like. Further, the non-transitory computer-readable storage media of memory 904 may include executable instructions in the form of modules and a database to store data. The modules may include a set of instructions that may be executed to cause the one or more processors 906 to perform any one or more of the methods as disclosed herein throughout the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the modules may be configured to perform the steps of the disclosure using the data stored in the database of the memory 904 for providing the functionalities of the thermostat 900.

In one or more embodiments, the communication interface 908 may include a transceiver and may be configured to facilitate communication with the HVAC system and other external devices, such as, an external server or a cloud-based unit,

The thermostat 900 further includes a set of wires 910 configured to facilitate communication between the thermostat 900 and the HVAC system. The set of wires 910 may form a power line adapted to provide power line communication (PLC). The set of wires 910 may include a common line 910A, a power line 910B, and an outdoor activation (Y) line 910C. In an embodiment, the thermostat 900 may include only the C line 910A, the R line 910B, and the Y line 910C, and thus, the thermostat 900 may be a three-wire thermostat.

The thermostat 900 may be configured to control multiple operational functions of the HVAC system via the set of wires 910. In particular, the thermostat 900 may be configured to transmit data and commands via the set of wires 910 to the HVAC system. The HVAC system may be communicatively coupled to the thermostat 900 by means of the power line, in that, the set of wires 910 may extend from the thermostat 900 to the HVAC system, in particular, to the units of the HVAC system.

In some embodiments, the thermostat 900 may be disposed within an indoor area. In some embodiments, the HVAC system may be configured to operate so as to manage one or more parameters within the indoor area. The one or more parameters may include, for instance, temperature, humidity, indoor air quality (IAQ), and the like.

In some embodiments, the thermostat 900 may be associated with one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure corresponding parameters of the one or more parameters. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors may be integrated with the thermostat 900. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors may be disposed separately in the indoor area and may be in communication with the thermostat 900.

The one or more processors 906 may be configured to monitor the one or more parameters associated with the indoor area. The one or more processors 906 may be configured to receive measurements from the one or more sensors associated with the thermostat 900 and monitor the one or more parameters. Based on the monitored one or more parameters, the one or more processors 906 may be configured to generate an HVAC signal indicative of an operation to be performed by the HVAC system.

In an embodiment, the one or more processors 906 may be configured to receive a user input indicative of a command of a user. The user may be, for instance, a user within the indoor area. The one or more processors 906 may be configured to receive the user input via an interface of the thermostat 900 or from a user device of the user. Based on the received user input, the one or more processors 906 may be configured to generate the HVAC signal indicative of an operation to be performed by the HVAC system

The one or more processors 906 may be configured to determine the operation to be performed by the HVAC system based on at least of the user input or the one or more parameters associated with the indoor area. The operation to be performed by the HVAC system may include any one of multiple operational functions. For instance, the operation to be performed by the HVAC system may include, single-stage cooling, single-stage heating, multistage cooling, multistage heating, fan, and the like.

The one or more processors 906 may be configured to transmit the HVAC signal to the HVAC system. The HVAC signal may be indicative of the operation to be performed by the HVAC system, i.e., the operation determined by the thermostat 900. The one or more processors 906 may be configured to transmit the HVAC signal via the set of wires 910. The HVAC signal may include data signals which indicate to the HVAC signal regarding the operational function to be performed. In an embodiment, the HVAC signal may also include power signals. In an embodiment, the power and data signals may be transmitted over the Y line 910C of the set of wires 910.

In an embodiment, the data signals may be communicated via the set of wired 910 irrespective of whether the set of wires 910 are energized or de-energized. That is, at least one wire (say, Y line 910C) of the set of wires 910 may be associated with a powered state in which the at least one wire is energized and an unpowered state in which the at least one wire is de-energized.

The one or more processors 906 may be configured to cause the HVAC system to perform the operation based on the transmitted HVAC signal. That is, the one or more processors 906 may be configured to generate and transmit the HVAC signal over the set of wires 910. The HVAC signal is received by the HVAC system, in which, one or more control devices associated with the HVAC system decode the HVAC signal and identify the operation to be performed.

In some embodiments, the HVAC system may include a first HVAC unit and a second HVAC unit, which may correspond to the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 described with reference to FIG. 2. In an embodiment, the first HVAC unit may be an indoor unit (IDU) and the second HVAC unit may be an outdoor unit (ODU).

The one or more processors 906 may be configured to transmit the data signals to both the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit. In an embodiment, the data signals may be indicative of corresponding functions of the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit, thereby allowing the HVAC system to perform the operation. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 906 may be configured to simultaneously transmit the HVAC signal to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit.

The first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit may each comprise respective control devices to determine the operation to be performed based on the received HVAC signal, and further, perform the operation. The respective control devices may correspond to the first control device 212 and the second control device 214 described with reference to FIG. 2.

In an embodiment, the set of wires 910 between the thermostat and the first HVAC unit may include the C line, the Y line, and the R line. In an embodiment, the set of wires 910 between the thermostat and the second HVAC unit may include the C line and the Y line. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 906 are configured to transmit the data signals to the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit via the Y line 910C of the set of wires 910.

In an embodiment, the first HVAC unit may comprise a control device to determine, from the received HVAC signal, the operation to be performed and trigger an action for the HVAC unit. The control device may correspond to the first control device 212 described with reference to FIG. 2. The HVAC signal may be transmitted to the first HVAC unit, and the control device of the first HVAC unit may further transmit a command to the second HVAC unit. In such an embodiment, the HVAC signal may be transmitted to the first HVAC unit over the set of wires 910.

Referring to FIG. 9, the thermostat 900 may comprise a relay 912. The relay 912 may facilitate communication of the HVAC signal from the thermostat 900 to the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the relay 912 may be controlled by the control unit 902, in particular, the one or more processors 906 when the HVAC signal is to be transmitted to the HVAC system.

As an example, a call for power to the second HVAC unit may be received by the one or more processors 906. Prior to receiving the call for power to the second HVAC unit, the relay 912 may be in an open position, as depicted in FIG. 9. Referring to FIG. 10, the call for power to the second HVAC unit may be received by the one or more processors 906. Upon receiving the call for power to the second HVAC unit, the one or more processors 906 may cause the relay 912 to switch to the closed position, as shown by arrow A. As a result, power can be provided to the second HVAC unit via the Y line 910C.

Referring to FIGS. 11A-11C, schematic representations of an environment 1100 of the thermostat 900 in communication with a first HVAC unit 1102 and a second HVAC unit 1104 over a power line 1105 are illustrated. The first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104 may correspond to the first HVAC unit 206 and the second HVAC unit 208 as described with reference to FIG. 2. The first HVAC unit 1102 may comprise a first control device 1106 and the second HVAC unit 1104 may comprise a second control device 1108. The first control device 1106 and the second control device 1108 may correspond to the first control device 212 and the second control device 214 as described with reference to FIG. 2.

As seen in FIG. 11A, the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104 may comprise respective set of relays 1110, 1112. Each relay of the set of relays 1110, 1112 may be associated with a corresponding function. The set of relays 1110, 1112 may be controlled based on the HVAC signal received from the thermostat 900 over the power line 1105. Initially, the set of relays 1110, 1112 may be in an open position as no HVAC signal is received from the thermostat 900. In an embodiment, the Y line of the power line 1105 may be energized whenever a command is to be sent to the second HVAC unit 1104.

As seen in FIG. 11B, the thermostat 900 determines that an operation of first stage cooling is to be performed by the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104. The thermostat 900 generates and transmits an HVAC signal indicative of the operation of first stage cooling. The HVAC signal may be transmitted to both the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104 over the power line 1105. In an embodiment, the HVAC signal may comprise data signals indicative of the command for first stage cooling and the data signals may be transmitted over the Y line of the power line 1105.

Upon receiving the HVAC signal, the first control device 1106 may actuate a relay of the set of relays 1110 which corresponds to the function of first stage cooling. Further, the second control device 1108 may actuate a relay of the set of relays 1112 which corresponds to the function of first stage cooling. In FIG. 11B, the relays, from among the set of relays 1110, 1112, corresponding to the function of first stage cooling are shown in the closed position. As a result, the operation of the first stage cooling is performed by the HVAC system, i.e., by the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104.

At a later time, the thermostat 900 may determine that an additional operation of second stage cooling is to be performed by the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104. As seen in FIG. 11C, the thermostat 900 generates and transmits another HVAC signal indicative of the operation of second stage cooling. The another HVAC signal may be transmitted to both the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104 over the power line 1105. In an embodiment, the HVAC signal may comprise data signals indicative of the command for second stage cooling and the data signals may be transmitted over the Y line of the power line 1105.

Upon receiving the another HVAC signal, the first control device 1106 may actuate a relay of the set of relays 1110 which corresponds to the function of second stage cooling. Further, the second control device 1108 may actuate a relay of the set of relays 1112 which corresponds to the function of second stage cooling. In FIG. 11C, the relays, from among the set of relays 1110, 1112, corresponding to the function of second stage cooling are shown in the closed position. As a result, the operation of the second stage cooling is also performed by the HVAC system, i.e., by the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104.

Accordingly, the operation of the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104, i.e., the HVAC system can be controlled by the thermostat 900. In particular, with only the power line 1105, the thermostat 900 can cause multiple functions to be performed by the first HVAC unit 1102 and the second HVAC unit 1104, without requiring separate wirings for separate functions.

FIG. 12 illustrates a process flow depicting a method 1200 for controlling operation of the HVAC system. The method 1200 may be performed by the thermostat 900, in particular, the one or more processors 906 of the thermostat 900.

At step 1202, the method 1200 comprises determining an operation to be performed by the HVAC system based on at least one of a user input or one or more parameters associated with an indoor area. The indoor area is associated with the thermostat 900 and the HVAC system.

At step 1204, the method 1200 comprises transmitting, to the HVAC system via the set of wires 910, the HVAC signal indicative of the operation to be performed. At least one wire of the set of wires 910 is configured to communicate power signals and data signals associated with the HVAC signal.

At step 1206, the method 1200 comprises causing the HVAC system to perform the operation based on the transmitted HVAC signal.

While the above steps of FIG. 12 are shown and described in a particular sequence, the steps may occur in variations to the sequence in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure. Further, a detailed description related to the various steps of FIG. 12 is already covered in the description related to FIGS. 9-11C and is omitted herein for the sake of brevity.

The disclosure provides a thermostat with faster and simpler installations, reduced costs, and space-saving designs. Further, the thermostat can control multiple functions of the HVAC system using only the power line, i.e., the Y line, the R line, and the C line. Additional functionalities can be added at a later stage without requiring to install new wirings or relays. Less skilled technicians may also install the thermostat easily. Further, there would be fewer miswiring problems with only the power line being used. An intelligent and efficient system may also be achieved with the thermostat linked to HVAC units which allows addition of new functionalities as well as is compatible with legacy equipment.

The disclosure further provides a virtualized HVAC system comprising HVAC units, such as the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit. The virtualization of the HVAC system is characterized by the HVAC units being controlled via signals including energizing or deenergizing the 24 vac power of the Y line, by PLC communication carried over the Y line, or by both, either separate or simultaneously. One or both of the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit may be virtualized. With the virtualization, the HVAC units may be backward compatible with standard 24 v equipment. For instance, a virtualized IDU may be in communication with a standard ODU, a virtualized ODU may be in communication with a standard IDU, and both the IDU and the ODU may be virtualized.

A control device, such as the first control device, may monitor the HVAC signals from the thermostat. The control device may send data over the Y wire to either:

• • 1) the second control device of a virtualized second HVAC unit.
  • 2) the second control device integrated with a standard second HVAC unit.

The disclosure allows the addition of new HVAC units to the already installed HVAC system without requiring new wirings. For instance, single stage, two-stage, and multi-stage heat pump units can be added using only the already installed wirings of the HVAC system. As a result, installation time is significantly reduced.

As an example, W/W1, W2, Y/Y1, Y2, G, O/B, ACC1, ACC2, DEHUM, and other signals can be virtualized. The signals can be energized and de-energized based on the data received over the Y wire. Moreover, when a new unit requiring additional signals is to be attached to the existing HVAC system, the need for installing separate wiring for the additional signals is eliminated. This is because the additional signal can be directed to a corresponding terminal of the control device(s) based on signals from the Y wire.

Moreover, without the need to connect to standard legacy units, the relays can be eliminated and the HVAC signals can be directed to the corresponding terminals of the control device(s).

The control boards (first control board and/or the second control board) of the HVAC system may thus perform all the functions of a multi-wire HVAC system using only three wires between the thermostat and the first HVAC unit, and only two wires between the first HVAC unit and the second HVAC unit. A modern, efficient multi-stage HVAC system may thus be enabled using the existing wirings. No additional wiring needs to be pulled to connect new units.

Further, the number of signal connectors on the first HVAC unit and/or the second HVAC unit can be easily dynamically increased or decreased. With only three wires (Y, C, and R lines), the entire HVAC system can be virtualized. Integrating the control device(s) on the HVAC units reduces the number of wires needed for a complete system to only three wires.

As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the methods disclosed herein in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts.

The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.

While specific language has been used to describe the subject matter, any limitations arising on account thereto, are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein. The drawings and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.